Which Dog Breeds Need Walking the Most?

If you've ever wondered which dog breeds need walking the most, you're not alone; it's one of the first questions prospective owners ask. Getting it right matters: too little exercise and your dog may become bored or anxious; too much and you risk overexerting a breed that simply isn't built for it.

This post covers everything from high-energy working breeds to more relaxed companions. You'll learn which active breeds of dogs need the most time outdoors, which smaller breeds can surprise you with their stamina, and which dogs are better suited to a quieter lifestyle.

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Before jumping into specific breeds, it helps to understand the factors that influence a dog's exercise requirements. Here are the main things to consider:

If you love spending time outdoors and want a dog who'll match your pace, certain breeds stand out as the most active dogs you can own. These are dogs that need significant daily exercise.

Consistently ranked among the most active dog breeds, the Border Collie was bred for all-day herding. They're incredibly intelligent, which means they need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise. Without it, they can develop behavioural problems. Border Collies do best with at least 90 minutes of vigorous exercise per day.

The English Springer Spaniel is another breed with seemingly inexhaustible energy. Originally bred as a gun dog, they love to run, sniff, and explore. An English Springer Spaniel mix with a Border Collie would combine two of the most driven working breeds. The result is a dog with exceptional stamina and intelligence, requiring an equally dedicated owner.

Built for pulling sledges across frozen terrain, Huskies are powerful, tireless dogs. They need a great deal of daily exercise and can become destructive or vocal if under-stimulated. They're best suited to active owners who enjoy long-distance running, hiking, or cycling with their dog.

Often called the "Velcro dog" because of their close attachment to their owners, Vizslas are also one of the best dogs for long walks. They need around two hours of exercise daily and love activities that combine movement with human interaction.

Historically bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages, Dalmatians have extraordinary endurance. They suit active families who can commit to regular, substantial exercise.

The best dog for walking isn't necessarily the largest or most athletic-looking breed. What matters most is that your dog's energy levels align with your own lifestyle and availability. Breeds that tend to relish long walks include:

It's a common misconception that small dogs don't need much exercise. In reality, many small breeds are surprisingly energetic and genuinely enjoy extended outings. If you're looking for small dogs that like long walks, these breeds are worth considering.

Jack Russells were bred for fox hunting and have energy levels that far exceed what their compact bodies might suggest. They love to run, explore, and investigate, making them perfect companions for a long country walk.

Similar to the Jack Russell, the Parson Russell Terrier is an athletic, spirited breed that genuinely enjoys being out and about for extended periods. They're robust, alert, and always up for an adventure.

Lively and curious, Miniature Schnauzers enjoy a decent amount of daily exercise and adapt well to varied environments. They're robust little dogs with plenty of personality to spare.

Originally a herding dog, the Corgi is low to the ground but surprisingly agile and energetic. They enjoy regular, brisk walks and benefit from more exercise than many people assume.

If you lead a quieter lifestyle or have limited time for exercise, there are plenty of wonderful breeds that are happy with shorter, more gentle outings. Dogs that don't need much walking include:

Even when you know your breed's general requirements, it can be tricky to know whether you're hitting the mark in practice. Here are some signs to watch for.

Signs your dog may need more exercise:

Signs your dog may be over-exercised:

Finding the right balance is part of getting to know your individual dog. Breed guidelines are a helpful starting point, but your dog's own behaviour will give you the clearest picture.

Most dogs benefit from at least two walks a day, though high-energy breeds may need three or more. The total duration matters as much as the frequency, so aim to meet your breed's daily exercise quota across those sessions.

It is possible to over-exercise your dog, particularly with puppies, elderly dogs, and flat-faced breeds. Pushing a dog beyond their physical limits can cause joint strain, exhaustion, and long-term injury, so it's always worth researching your specific breed's needs.

A garden can supplement exercise but shouldn't replace walks entirely. Dogs need the mental stimulation that comes from exploring new environments, encountering smells, and socialising, something a familiar garden can't fully provide.

Most dogs still need some outdoor time in poor weather, even if the walk is shorter than usual. Investing in a waterproof dog coat for sensitive breeds can help make wet-weather walks more comfortable for both of you.

Most puppies can begin short walks around a week after completing their vaccination course. A general rule of thumb is five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, to protect their developing joints.

Regular exercise can make a significant difference to behavioural issues rooted in boredom and excess energy. That said, it's not a fix-all; some behavioural challenges benefit from structured training alongside physical activity.

Understanding your dog's exercise needs is just one part of building a happy, healthy life together. If you'd like to go deeper, the Canine Behaviour Training Diploma Course is a brilliant place to start. For a limited time, you can access the course for just £29.